Wake held for FDNY Lieutenant Joseph Maiello on Staten Island

STATEN ISLAND, New York (WABC) -- Hundreds of New York City's bravest traveled to Staten Island Wednesday for the wake of firefighter lieutenant Joseph Maiello.

The 53-year-old was discovered unconscious while on duty at his fire house, Engine 163 and Ladder 83 on Staten Island, on Sunday.

Joe Maiello of Engine Company 83 passed away on Sunday morning. The fire department says Maiello was in his quarters at the time.

Maiello was a 22-year veteran of the fire department.

FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro paid his respects to Maiello at Mathew Funeral Home on Victory Boulevard.

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He said today was a sad day for the fire department and for the Maiello's family.

Nigro says Maiello's sudden death hit everyone he works with very hard.

"Death at this time of year seems even more difficult to take as we try to enjoy this holiday season together. We certainly can't now," Nigro said. "Tomorrow he'll be given a real department sendoff that he so deserves."

Maiello's funeral will be held Thursday morning at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church on Staten Island.

He's survived by his wife and two children.

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